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Layout of cushions in studio. Tree with location. A5 booklet with location point. 

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Photos of my cushion at Albert Park and in use. 

Table and seat

Window

Ladder and bed 

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300 word description

Sad.

That was my first thought when I saw the tree within my allocated area at Albert Park. It has dark prickly leaves, peeling bark and many spikey twigs. Compared to the neighbouring trees with smooth wood, healthy growth and vibrant green leaves, my tree looked depressed and uninviting. While I was observing my space two parakeets flew into the tree and my eyes were instantly attracted to their bright colours and life energy. I watched these birds for some time before reflecting on my superficial actions and realised that I instantly judged the tree by its appearance. However, I should be viewing the tree through the eyes of the parakeet. The tree's leaves and bark could help to build their nests and the canopy above provides them with shade and shelter, as well as producing oxygen for them to breathe. After considering a different perspective this led me to think about how the tree should be appreciated as is home to many creatures and is an important part of our environment.

To do this I made a cushion consisting of four mini models. These being a ladder, bed, window, and table made from a combination of natural resources and decorative items. These four models then work together adding life energy and creating a sense of wonder in the space, questioning “what or who uses these items”. I placed the models around the tree, slightly concealed and positioned at different heights, developing engagement like a treasure hunt. Due to this people were able to search for the items and begin to understand the concept piece by piece. Through the models, we realise the tree is home to many and though not visually stimulating, is a meaningful part of our ecosystem. This causes us to appreciate all aspects of the tree and cushion it from our superficial judgment.

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Reflection on final cushion development 

In total I made four models that work together as one cushion. 

Window. Glitter, plastic gems, plastic backing, clear vanish, PVA glue, natural moss, sticks and bark. 

Ladder. Natural wooden sticks, twine, hot glue, natural moss, bark, leaves, paper flowers. 

Bed. Leaves, hot glue, newspaper, PVA glue, twine, moss and bark. 

Table and seat. Wood, bark, moss, twine, paper flowers, rocks, hot glue. 

Construction 

Bed - To construct the bed I made a paper mache curve as a base to stabilise and provide structure for the leaves to be glued onto. Once I overlapped each leaf I then trimmed and poked holes through the top of the curving shape, treading through a piece of twine. I then tied this twine into a bow ensuring extra string would be available to attach the hanging bed to the tree. 

Ladder - After sanding and measuring all of the wooden sticks I wrapped twine around the two longer pieces before attaching the smaller ladder pieces with twine knots. I then used a combination of decorative items such as paper flowers, bark, and moss to add more elements of nature. 

Window - To make the window I first sanded and measured before using gloss to finish all the wooden sticks.  I then glued these to a clear plastic sheet (as a base) and stuck on gems to mimic the reflection of glass. Once the gems and sticks we firmly placed onto the plastic base I dotted PVA glue in between the gaps on the gems and sprinkled over coloured glitter. I used shades of white, and blue as I thought this would add more vibrance and contrast when placed in the tree and show different reflections that glass projects at different angles. Once tipping off excess glitter I attached moss and bark to help the window blend in with the exterior of the tree. 

Table and seat - When I was collecting natural materials from the park I came across a larger chunk of wood that I thought would make a sturdy tabletop. To begin constructing, I sanded the surfaces and the edges of the wood until were slightly smooth but ensuring the natural features were still visible. I then separately made two triangles out of 6 sticks to act as the legs, then attached these to the underside of the table using hot glue. To accompany the table I made a placemat out of circling twine together and a book out of smaller wooden chunks and flexible bark. I glue these to the wood alongside moss and bark for natural elements as well as a shell for a food bowl and flowers like a vase on the table. With the table, I made a seat out of two rocks and a bigger piece of bark that I glued together and wrapped feathery moss around the joins. 

These models work together as one cushion in three different setups. 

I placed the ladder and bed together to explain the action of "climbing into bed". A familiar thing we all do daily relating us to the creature inhabiting the tree. 

I aimed to place this window flat against the tree to spark curiosity about who or what is inside? Who or what is looking outside? The flat surface and natural elements helped the window to be held up with the peels in the bark and blend into the features of the tree. 

Table and seat work together as this is a common space where people eat, rest, read and relax. This model represents a homely lifestyle which then creates the wonder of who's home this could be. 

All together these models make one cushion as they show that there is more than meets the eye. On closer inspection these models relate to people and we realise there is something more that lives in this tree. We wonder what this could be and what else uses this tree. Ultimately we wonder what more this tree does for the environment than we initially thought and how it should be appreciated and protected from superficial judgment as it is an important part of our ecosystem. 

Above is a photo of Yana's feedback, where we talked about my cushion development as well as the meaning and the creation of my 1:10 models. From our conversation, I have worked with natural materials and developed rustic cushions that connect with the nature of my location and cushioning concept. However, due to my models being smaller to fit the idea of appreciation for detail (before the wider world), my 1:10 models are tiny. Yana explained that this would be hard for me to make my models out of the same materials but mentioned that I could model with materials like watercolour paper. When developing these 1:10 figures I measured the 1:1 models and divided them by 10. I then cut shapes out of watercolour paper and used brown paint and green paint to resemble the wood and leaves as well as incorporating materials from my 1:1 models like glitter, twine, moss and wood. 

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Photos of development process 

1 & 2 - Shopping and collection of elements used to make the models. 

3 & 4 - Trialing of potential fabrication 

5 & 6 - Development of 1:10 scale models. 

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Brainstorm of potential materials and concepts for mini figures

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Reflection of prototype + feedback from Yana 

Humor. Bug in tree people peeping out if bark. 

For these prototypes I tired to show that the tree is home to many things. I created a bug reading a book to relate to an activity that other people would do in their home environment. I also made little people to show that even though the bark of the tree is starchy and uncomfortable that the gaps create shelter, home and safety for smaller creatures. 

I made both these figures from air dry clay, acrylic paint and used a paper stencil to construct the bug. The delicacy of the thinner details like bug antennas fell off when pressed too hard meaning they need to be secularly placed in the tree. For these prototypes used blue tack to hold the models in the tree which sometimes did not stick to the texture of the tree as intended as the bark is slightly weak. Due to the small details of the mini figures the blue tack pieces were visible and collected dirt from the tree. 

(Side note as I was putting my objects in the tree the other people around me and walking past were interested in what I was doing). 

I was going to then reflect on how I could improve these models further but after feedback and conversation with Yana I have moved towards a different path of prototyping and understanding the exact effect of my cushioning. 

Yana explained to me that the mystical approach she understood of my cushion was wonder. She explained that showing less instead of more creates wonder in the idea. We talked about how I can begin to prototyping small models out of natural items like twigs and leaves after the research I found, which also relates back to the nature of tree. Creating a couple of small models that show part of an idea leaves more wonder and allows me to focus on the intricacy of them. She also talked about how finding a story to base your idea off could help the process or that creating a character and thinking of  all the things that the character needs or does. 

I feel like I knew what my cushion was trying to say was but had struggled trying to explain this idea. My talk with Yana was extremely helpful as I now understand that my cushion, cushions the tree as it it makes people wonder what is using these things, what more could there be. Therefore relating to the wider approach of wondering what more the tree does for us and its environment. (If other things can inhabit the tree then maybe it is more wonderful than we though). 

From this conversation and feedback my next steps are to brainstorm possible ideas of small models used for a character like “benny the bug”. Along side these ideas I need to make a list of possible materials needed and begin collecting and constructing these models. Another important tip Yana had for me was to have fun with my models as my idea is mythical so  think outside the box and be humorous with concepts. 

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Research - Fantasy Wire  https://fantasywire.co.uk/ 

Insider :https://www.youtube.com/watch?

Artist: Robin Wright

Robin Wright is a British artist who specialises in fairy sculptors made from different kinds of metal wire. Robin sees wonder in the environment around him and believes that fairies can "protect the world from evil". Each "one has to have her own story and her own personality" and thinks carefully about where he positions the fairy to exhibit and why.

 I was first drawn to Robin's work after a video I watched of the fairy dancing in the wind. I thought that this enhanced the magic of the sculpture as it brought it to life and thought that it was clever using a natural element like the wind to do the work for you. 

I love seeing how robin maintains a connection with nature in his work as he sculpts plants like flowers alongside the faires. Reinforcing the magic in the environment around us. I also found it interesting as his work was intricate with the use of wire but he just creates outlines and doesn't add other detail e.g facial. I would be interested to see if this saves time as smaller intricate details are difficult and sometimes time-consuming. 

Through Robins work, I can see similarities to the creativeness I aim to show and the idea of protecting, appreciating, and cushioning the tree. Moving forward I think that it is important for me to think about the placement of my models amongst the tree and how I could use certain parts to enhance the effect (e.g fairy climbing or coming out of a hole). I also think it would be helpful for me to establish a strong outline of my figure before working on intricate details. If I decide to add more details I think it will be beneficial to know the size and structure of the model first and if don't decide to add details this could let people imagine the rest.  

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Research - Fairy works 

After my presentation feedback, Emily mentioned that my idea was slightly magical which reminded her of the fairy lands she takes her kids to visit. As part of my research, I found a company called Fairy works which was founded at the begging of New Zealand's first lockdown. This company places fairy houses in trees to spark imagination and encourage kids to have fun outdoors.

Some key points that stood out to me when reading about Fairy works vision were : - imagination - wonder - and anything is possible

I found these words interesting as I can see a connection to the cushion I am trying to create, as my idea is more conceptual and theoretical than practical. For people to understand the cushioning aspect of my cushion they will have to think imaginatively to see the wider approach.

The main target audience for Fairy works is small children who find it fun to search for the houses throughout the park. These houses are obvious for kids to find however I think my cushion might be more impactful if not obvious. I still hope to include a treasure hunt aspect though, I could draw people in with one more obvious model but hide the rest in different positions to interest people in finding the rest. Therefore hoping they understand the models and the cushion together as a whole. (These will only be 1-3 models as my feedback was to focus on the execution rather than obvious volume)

Construction/ materials While looking through fairy works website and Instagram page I noticed they used a wide range of materials that I didn't expect to create high-standard models. Some of these amazing models were made from natural materials like rocks, waste like shoes, and basic items like ice block sticks. Alone these materials are too simple however together they create intricate elements that result in the final fairy houses looking well designed. I think they looked finished as the intricate elements and everyday items create more sense of wonder, interest, and Fairy works "anything is possible" approach.

To construct my models at the moment I am using clay. However, after this research, I could try to gather different objects and materials for my next prototype. If my work is more intricate maybe people will spend more time looking at the details and understanding the cushion furthermore.

Developing concept 

Understanding the appreciation through the relation to the tree (e.g an animal that uses it as a home or something that the tree does for others). Doesn't need to be big but needs to catch people's eye to start the treasure hunt (encourages thinking and fun) Interest through humor, comical approach, intricate detail, colour or shine?

https://www.fairyworks.nz/about

One fairy house creator is named - Jo

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Brainstorm after presentation 

After feedback, I decided to brainstorm new concepts and simplified ideas. As Emily said the cushion does not need to be big for it to stand out. Just focus on the idea behind the models (what I am trying to say/cushion). In this brainstorm I have tried to expand on a few key words like magical and humorous. I hope to bring my brainstorm and new models into class next week to gain some more feedback, direction on material choice and refining my ideas. 

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Practice placement of models

Treasure hunt theory

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Close up photos of tree texture

Potential areas to place models

I was really pleased with the effect of the parakeet in the tree as the colours created a vibrant interesting contrast. Though you can not see what the figure is from further away, I thought this related to what Emily was saying. Even though the figure is not large, the pop of colour will draw attention and when people get closer they will understand the cushion.

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Feedback on my presentation

The presentation covered a lot of work. This was good as it showed the other work that I had been doing but was the right decision to skip through as they were not my current idea and I was being timed.

As my presentation included a lot of work my ideas were not entirely clear. I need to narrow down my concept further as trying to include many aspects of the information was overwhelming.

Emily said that my cushion doesn't have to cover a big space or be visually obvious. Instead, I could focus my time and energy on something smaller that is developed to a high quality. This could be hidden amongst the tree as a kind of scavenger hunt, making people interested in looking for it. It also doesn't need to be big because if people have the same idea as me they will understand what the purpose is anyway.

While I simplify Emily also said that I was on the right track but just need to think about how the cushion is cushioning. If it is cushioning a wider context but if that is the case then need to narrow that down and know exactly what my point is.

She also explained how she enjoys taking her kids to fairyland because they enjoy searching for mythical magic. She said my idea seems slightly mythical because it is more of a construct that could be a good source for me to include in my research.

Notes for myself If have a short time only present a few short concise ideas. Include more detail in my map. e.g people plotted sounds or pathways things would take, they also drew over the top. Presentation of the slide could be better e.g titles to label, detailed drawings etc

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Prototype reflection

(Before writing this reflection I discovered that the parakeet I refer to is the Eastern rosella parakeet.)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parrots_of_New_Zealand 

Clay parakeet, glitter feather, and pathway.

Parakeet/ Eastern rosella When constructing the parakeet I found the technique of using a stencil and sharp knife to cut out the figure significantly easier than when used my hands in my previous trial. I was able to achieve the correct proportions and the flatter 2d(5mm) surface was easier to piece together. I added more clay to the back and from to the parakeet at the join to ensure it was strong enough to hold its weight when tied to the tree.  I used a light layer of clear nail polish which minimised the visibility of the paintbrush strokes and added small hints of reflection. The colours were vibrant and contrast the dark feature of my tree in Albert Park. Though I could paint the other side of the model to ensure that when it turns in the wind the effect will remain the same. I could see the texture that I engraved in the clay however I could add more as this provided an interesting detail.

To decorate my clay feather I used foil, coloured paint and glitter. The purpose of this prototype was to reflect the idea of the parakeet and to catch light in different ways. The colours and the shiny foil stood out amongst the colours of the tree and the glitter was able to add different textures and pick up light too. However, the execution could have been more precise as it resembled the rough shape of a feather but was hard to tell what the figure was meant to be.

The clay speech bubble I thought made a helpful addition to the Parakeet as it communicates the idea to others. When close enough it was easy to read what the speech bubble said as it was as big as my hand and had a thickness of 5mm (strong but not too heavy). I also did not paint this object as I thought that the colour resembled a speech bubble from a comic book and added a hint of animation. I used a simple vivid to write on the bubble but would like to receive feedback to assess if I should keep the speech bubble simplistic or add other elements to it.  

Moving forward...

parakeet Need to create a brainstorm of possible animals, insects, plants, etc that use/depend on the tree and create more models. I could potentially make my parakeet model slightly larger though I will reassess after creating other models and see if more of them can make an impact without adapting the size. I will continue with my stencil technique, engrave more texture onto the clay, use clear string to hand the models, and finish with a gloss to protect the clay while adding an element of light reflection.

Feather Instead of choosing elements of figures (the feather), I think it would be more impactful to create full figures as this would be easier for people to connect with and interpret. I thought the reflective materials related to my initial concept of attraction though for a more subtle impact I could add this to certain parts of the model or work into the clay while modeling.

Speech As well as creating more models I need to create more speech bubbles to accompany them. While making these bubbles I need to relate the words to the figures and why they appreciate the tree. E.g Birds use leaves to create nests... bugs live inside the peeling bark....spiders can use twigs to connect the webs ... fairies to show other things inhabit the tree.... tree produces oxygen. I will also trial different sizes of bubbles depending on the size of the figure and ensure I smooth out the edges in my next prototype.

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Trialing a pathway. Event appreciation walking around the tree. 

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Trialing a pathway concept. Appreciation event around the tree. 

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Reflective parakeet feather prototype